Swine Terminology and Definitions

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Farrowing

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The process of giving birth in swine.

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Market hog weight range

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Market hogs are typically sent to harvest around 240-280 lbs.

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Farrow-to-finish operations

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A swine herd that has sows farrowing year-round and raises offspring to market weight.

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Purebred operations

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Operations that produce seedstock with documented pedigrees for other breeders.

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Finishing operations

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Operations where pigs are purchased at about 25 lbs and fed to a desirable market weight.

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Barrow

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A male pig that has been castrated.

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Piglet

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A young pig, typically less than 4 months old.

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Pork

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The meat derived from pigs.

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Feeder pig operations

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Operations that purchase young pigs and raise them until they reach market weight.

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Sow

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A female pig that has given birth.

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